At Riverside Psychology, we offer cognitive processing therapy (CPT) in Fairfield, Connecticut, to treat individuals with trauma or other stressor-related disorders. CPT is a manualized, evidence-based treatment for those whose PTSD has changed the way they see themselves, the world, or the future. While we cannot change what happened in the past, CPT empowers individuals to process their trauma, reshape their thoughts, and build a brighter future.
What Do “Cognitive” and “Processing” Mean?
The “C” of CPT is rooted in social cognitive theory, which explains how beliefs and behaviors are shaped and sustained. CPT helps clients understand how trauma influences their thoughts and emotions, often leading to unhelpful patterns of thinking, such as self-blame or fear of safety. Through therapy, clients learn to identify and challenge these cognitive distortions, replacing them with more balanced perspectives. This reduces the emotional impact of traumatic memories and helps manage PTSD-related symptoms.
The “P” of CPT is based on emotional processing theory and how we naturally avoid reminders of our traumatic past. Understandably, it’s distressing to face things that remind us of our traumas, but this avoidance can prevent individuals from recovering from PTSD. By addressing avoidance and encouraging emotional processing, CPT helps individuals confront their trauma in a safe, constructive way.
How CPT Sessions Work
Cognitive processing therapy is structured and highly collaborative. It typically involves 12 sessions, combining elements of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with trauma-specific strategies. Core components include psychoeducation, examining how trauma affects us, and learning tools to address symptoms of PTSD like guilt, shame, and self-blame. CPT helps clients explore the emotional and cognitive impacts of trauma and focuses on nurturing the following:
- Feeling safe, protected, and able to judge dangerous situations
- Becoming empowered, capable, and in control
- A healthy balance of trust and mistrust
- Self-worth, self-esteem, and the worth of others
- Allowing yourself to be close to others and alone with yourself
CPT is supported by extensive research. By fostering healthier ways of thinking, it empowers individuals to work through their experiences, improve emotional regulation, and move toward recovery and resilience.
Offering Empathetic Trauma Therapy
Riverside Psychology is here to support you with compassionate cognitive processing therapy in Fairfield, CT. If you or someone you know could benefit from CPT, we invite you to contact us today for a free consultation with a PTSD therapist who can guide you on the path to healing.